Is There an Irritable Bowel Syndrome Cure?

Irritable bowel syndrome is a common intestinal problem where intestines either squeeze too hard, or not enough, causing food to move too quickly or too slowly. IBS is more common in women, and starts around the age of 20. It is not curable, but some medications and natural methods can help relieve the symptoms.

Irritable bowel syndrome is also known as irritable colon, functional bowel syndrome, spastic colon and spastic bowel. The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome include mucus in the stool, gas and bloating, diarrhea, constipation, strong urge to have bowel movement, and abdominal cramping that vanishes after passing the stool.

The best irritable bowel syndrome cure is to eat a well-balanced diet, and avoid foods that make the symptoms worse. You must also learn the ways to handle stress, as symptoms of IBS become worse when you are under anxiety.

Fiber can be effective irritable bowel syndrome cure, as it improves the functionality of intestines. There are soluble and insoluble fibers, and each has its own function. Soluble fiber helps in constipation and diarrhea, and it gets dissolved in water to form a gel-like material. Beans, citrus fruits and apples are good sources of soluble fiber, and you can also buy psyllium supplements to drink. Insoluble fibers help in constipation, and move the material by adding bulk to the stool. Wheat bran, some vegetables and whole grain breads are good sources of insoluble fiber.

An effective irritable bowel syndrome cure is to avoid the foods that make you feel worse. Caffeine and high fat foods can make the symptoms of IBS worse, and hence it is best to avoid them. These foods cause the intestines to contract, leading to abdominal pain or cramping. Chocolate and alcohol can also make you feel worse, and if you suffer from the problem of gas, it is a good idea to avoid foods like cabbage, beans and certain fruits.

Another irritable bowel syndrome cure is to avoid milk and milk products if they bother you, as you might have lactose intolerance. Dairy products can make the symptoms of IBS worse if you can’t digest lactose.

Prescription medicines can also be an effective irritable bowel syndrome cure, as these medications manage or lessen the symptoms. Antispasmodic medicines are usually prescribed to treat cramping. Dicyclomine and hyoscyamine help relax colon spasms. Hot baths and heating pads can also provide some relief.

If you are suffering from stress or anxiety, sedatives or tranquilizers can be useful irritable bowel syndrome cure. The doctor may also prescribe antidepressants if you have severe symptoms, and if you feel depressed.

There are certain irritable bowel syndrome natural cures that include using peppermint oil, probiotics, partially hydrolyzed guar gum, and pancreatic enzymes. Some people also find hypnotherapy or hypnosis helpful to treat the symptoms of IBS.